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Suzuki XL7 vs. Hyundai Santa Fe Review

How the Suzuki XL7 stacks up against the Hyundai Santa Fe - by Nigel Cooper, Topanga CA

2009 Suzuki XL7
Price Range: $25,745 - $29,930
2009 Hyundai Santa Fe
Price Range: $21,695 - $30,545
Suzuki XL7 vs. Hyundai Santa Fe Review

Utility
The Hyundai and the Suzuki XL7 can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Dimensions
The Suzuki XL7 is substantially more bulky than the Santa Fe. The XL7's tank is roughly the same size as the Hyundai Santa Fe's, though the Hyundai Santa Fe's is somewhat bigger. The Hyundai and the Suzuki compete for the same parking spaces.

Convenience
You'll most certainly take the Suzuki for a fill-up almost as often as the Hyundai.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs almost the same to get the Hyundai to the dealership as the XL7. As far as MSRP, the Suzuki XL7 costs roughly as much as the Hyundai Santa Fe (though the Hyundai Santa Fe is a tad cheaper).

Handling
With its tighter turning circle, the Hyundai Santa Fe is most certainly nimbler than the Suzuki XL7, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; on the other hand, remember that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The Hyundai Santa Fe's engine is considerably smaller than the XL7's. Keep in mind that a smaller engine usually has to work a little harder; on the other hand, smaller engines typically get better gas mileage. The Hyundai could learn a lesson or two from the XL7 regarding torque. Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the XL7 is substantially more powerful than the Santa Fe.

Comfort
Taller drivers will significantly enjoy the extra head room in the Suzuki XL7's front cabin compared to the Hyundai Santa Fe. The ampler interior dimensions of the Suzuki make it substantially roomier for your passengers than the Hyundai.

Warranty
The basic warranty that comes with the XL7 isn't quite as generous as the Hyundai Santa Fe's.

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